Data input/output system, data input/output method, and program recording medium

ABSTRACT

An interactive-type data system comprising an integration of instinctive operability of the real objects with multiple purpose functions is disclosed. Concretely, by utilizing a transparent tile incorporating a wireless tag as a unit of interface, a plurality of tiles are disposed on a flat display surface or a tablet. The computing system reads identification data contained in each wireless tag and then activates a corresponding processing operation. For example, the computing system accesses such data resources related to tiles or activates a corresponding function or application program. Further, based on physical positional relationship between plural tiles, it is possible to integrally combine basic capability provided for by individual tiles.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present invention claims priority to priority document no.2000-325223 filed in Japan on Oct. 25, 2000, and incorporated byreference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a user interface for executingan operation of object and a command input operation against a computer.In particular, the present invention relates to such user interfacecapable of instinctively and intelligibly executing an operation ofobject and a command input operation.

[0004] More particularly, the present invention relates to such aproposal pertaining to a user interface environment which instinctivelyand intelligibly expresses a set of operations by harmonizing a physicalinterface existing in a real space and a visual interface such asdisplay for displaying a logical space of each computer. In particular,the present invention relates to such a proposal pertaining to a userinterface environment capable of easily executing operation for linkingmutually a plurality of apparatuses such as a data exchanging operationamong these apparatuses

[0005] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0006] Along with progress of technological innovation in recent years,a wide variety of general-purpose computer systems incorporating highvalue-added and highly sophisticated functions called work-stations orpersonal computers have thus been developed and commercially promoted inmarket with relatively small size and low price. Actually, thesecomputer systems have widely been promoted in universities, researchinstitutions, business enterprises, offices, and even in daily life ofindividual homes.

[0007] Generally, any of computer systems is driven in response to acommand input by a user and provides an interactive processingenvironment by way of displaying the processed result on a displayscreen. Recently, it is noted that such a character-based user inputenvironment called a CUI (Character User Interface) via a conventionalkeyboard represented by a DOS (Disk Operating System) shell screen hasbeen shifted to a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that has realized agraphic-based user input operation. Under the GUI environment, such adesk-top with a simulated computer system and an innumerable number oficons are prepared on a display screen.

[0008] All of resource objects dealt in a computer system such as filesare expressed as icons on a GUI-oriented desk top. By way of directlygiving operation (such as click or drag and drop) to a display object onthe screen to the icons individually symbolizing specific programs,data, folders, and devices, on the display screen via mouse operation, auser can instinctively operate a computer. In addition, a variety offunctions such as menu bars and tool boxes, i.e., a variety of buttonsfor instantaneously activating every computer processing operation areprepared on the desk top. Accordingly, a style of the command input hasbecome more intelligible for a user by intuition.

[0009] Owing to the introduction of the above mentioned GUI environment,a user is enabled to fully operate a computer without specificallylearning titles of a specific command and how to use the command, andyet, without executing complex key input operations.

[0010] Typically, those coordinate-indicating devices such as a mouse, atrack ball, a joy stick, a tablet, or a touch pad are cited as a userinput devices operable under the GUI environment. Of these, the mousehas widely been propagated in the computer field, and accordingly, mostof computer users are well accustomed to mouse operation based on thedrag and drop operation. When newly introducing a computer to businessoffices or homes, it is not exaggeration to mention that there is nomore need to specifically train users how to operate the mouse. As amatter of fact, the GUI based on the mouse operation has already beenrooted among many users by way of providing them with a variety ofgeneral-purpose functions.

[0011] Further, in recent years, as an interactive input/output methodin dealing with a computer and other data processing systems, study oninterface via the real object has been propagated [refer to annotations1, 2, 3, and 4].

[0012] According to such an interface utilizing the real object, unlikesuch a basic GUI operating method based on picture information viadisplay output and a general-purpose input device such as a mouse, it ispossible to extract such sophisticated function for dealing with realobjects properly owned by the human being, and thus, there is such apossibility of utilizing the above interface for computer processingoperation.

[0013] For example, it is possible for the above interface to quicklyoperate a plurality of real objects with both hands. Further, by virtueof real affordance [refer to annotation 5] from an real object, it ispossible to constitute a more intelligible and intimate interface.

[0014] On the other hand, versatility and variableness provided by theGUI will be lost by the introduction of an real object as a means forimplementing the user interface. It is relatively difficult to convertuse of an real object designed for a specific object, i.e., any physicalobject, into another object such as computer processing operation. Mostof such interface systems thus far proposed have been designed forspecific uses, and actually, nothing have been designed to function asgeneral-purpose platforms like the GUI.

[0015] Further, in recent years, there is a growing tendency in whichinteractive means for dealing with a computer or a data network has beenshifted from PCs (Personal Computer) to information handling appliances.In other words, instead of executing all the works on a desk top of onecomputer, there is such a tendency in which users more frequentlyutilize a wide variety of electric apparatuses such as computer relatedelectronic appliances and mobile apparatuses. Many of these apparatusesincorporate limited number of functions than that of general-purposecomputers adopting the GUI, and thus, these apparatuses can utilize moresimplified interface. Accordingly, it is conceived that such a simpleinterface capable of supporting linkage among a number of computers(data exchange appliances) at homes and offices should be designed asurgently as possible.

[0016] On the other hand, when computer processes are dispersed to anumber of apparatuses due to propagation of network services, it willbecome greater importance for the operation to execute process formutually linking a plurality of relevant apparatuses in order toexchange data between individual apparatuses.

[0017] For example, in order to transmit data contents comprising videoimage shown on a TV set in a home to a friend via E-mail using aportable telephone or in order to share a memorandum written on a whiteboard together with an optional picture in an office or project thesedata on a projection screen, it is necessary to provide such aninterface capable of readily executing an operation for exchanging data.However, inasmuch as it is quite difficult to predict combination ofthose applicable apparatuses and transmission in the form of data inadvance, it is desired that such a system capable of easily executingproper function on the part of end users shall be formed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] It is an aspect of the present invention to provide such a usefuluser interface environment capable of instinctively and intelligentlyexpressing data by way of harmonizing such a physical interface presentin real space with a visual interface such as display for displayinglogical space of computers.

[0019] It is another aspect of the present invention to provide such asimple user interface environment for supporting mutual linkage betweena number of computers (data processing apparatuses) in homes andoffices.

[0020] It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide such auseful user interface environment capable of easily executing operationsfor mutually linking a plurality of data processing apparatuses forexchanging data between individual apparatuses.

[0021] The present invention has been consummated by way of consideringthe above-referred problems. The first aspect of the present inventionprovides such a data input and output system comprising the following: avisual interface comprising a substantially flat operating surface forallowing installation of a physical interface and display function fordisplaying data on the operating surface; an identifying means foridentifying the physical interface installed on the operating surface;and a data processing means for executing data processing operation incorrespondence with identified result drawn by the identifying means andexternally displaying processed result on the visual interface.

[0022] It should be understood that the term “system” specified aboverefers to logical assemblage of a plurality of apparatuses (or suchfunctional modules for realizing specific functions) withoutparticularly questioning whether individual apparatuses and functionalmodules are installed within a single cubic casing or not.

[0023] Preferably, the above-referred physical interface comprises asubstantially flat transparent structure, which comprises the following:a transparent area for allowing data displayed on the back-surface sideof the transparent structure to be permeable onto the front-surfaceside; a property data displaying area which is disposed in part of theback surface or the front surface in order to display property data ofthe physical interface; and an identification data storing means whichis buried in the transparent structure in order to sustain properidentification data.

[0024] In the practical form for implementing the present invention tobe described later on, the above-referred physical interface is called a“tile” which is disposed on a flat operating surface.

[0025] The identification data storing means is formed in the name of“wireless tag” for example, which, in response to the reception of waveshaving a specific modulated frequency, returns AM-modulated wavescorresponding to a proper identification data for example. In this case,an identifying means on the part of the data input and output systemidentifies proper data of the physical interface, i.e., the tile, basedon so-called electromagnetic transmission and reception method.

[0026] The inventive visual interface comprises a flat display such as aliquid crystal display for example. Preferably, the inventive visualinterface comprises such a flat display surface integrated with adigitizer capable of reading pen input data via operational surface ofthe visual interface and the inventive physical interface disposed onthe operational surface of the visual interface.

[0027] In this case, the above-referred data processing means executes adata processing operation in correspondence with combination ofidentification data held by the corresponding physical interfacedisposed on the operational surface and the pen input data added to thephysical interface.

[0028] A plurality of physical interfaces may be disposed on the visualinterface. Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toexecute such a data processing operation in correspondence withcombination of identification data held by two or more than two of thephysical interfaces disposed on the operational surface of the visualinterface.

[0029] Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toexecute such a data processing operation in correspondence withcombination of identification data held by two or more than two of thephysical interfaces disposed on the operational surface of the visualinterface and pen input data added to the physical interfaces.

[0030] Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toexecute processing operations assigned to a specific identification datain response to the result of detecting the corresponding identificationdata from the corresponding physical interface disposed on the visualinterface and then externally display the processed result onto theinstalled position of the corresponding physical interface in order thatvisual feedback can be effected.

[0031] Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toexecute an application program assigned to a specific identificationdata in response to the result of detecting the correspondingidentification data from the corresponding physical interface disposedon the operational surface of the visual interface and then externallydisplay the result of executing the corresponding application programonto the installed position of the corresponding physical interface inorder that visual feedback can be effected.

[0032] The inventive data input/output system may further comprise sucha communication means for accessing external data resources. In thiscase, in response to the result of detecting a specific identifying datafrom any of the physical interfaces disposed on the operational surfaceof the visual interface, it is possible for the data processing means toaccess data resources assigned to the identification data and thenexternally display the acquired data onto the installed position of thecorresponding physical interface in order that visual feedback can beeffected.

[0033] Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toexecute own linkage with real world physical object assigned to aspecific identification data in response to the result of detecting thecorresponding identification data from the corresponding physicalinterface disposed on the operational surface of the visual interfaceand then externally display data related to the corresponding physicalobject onto the installed position of the physical interface in orderthat visual feedback can be effected. For example, by way of feedingdata from one of the physical interfaces onto another physical interfaceassigned to an real world physical object such as a printer, it ispossible for the data processing means to output such a request againstthe printer for executing a printing operation.

[0034] Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toassign data held by one of the physical interfaces adjoining a specificphysical interface to this specific physical interface in response tothe result of detecting the corresponding identification data from oneof the physical interfaces disposed on the operational surface of thevisual interface and then externally display the assigned data onto theinstalled position of the corresponding physical interface in order thatvisual feedback can be effected. In this way, it is possible for thedata processing means to transmit data received from other physicalinterfaces as though it acts as a container.

[0035] Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toassign data held by one of the physical interfaces adjoining a specificphysical interface to remotely disposed physical interfaces related tothis specific physical interface in response to the result of detectingthe corresponding identification data from the corresponding physicalinterface disposed on the operational surface of the visual interfaceand then externally display the assigned data onto the position at whichthe remotely disposed physical interfaces are disposed. For example, byway of designating such a physical interface being the transmitter asthe “master” and one of the physical interfaces being the transfer asthe “slave”, when another physical interface feeds data to the masterphysical interface, it is possible for the master physical interface toinstantaneously and instinctively transfer this data to the slavephysical interface.

[0036] Further, it is also possible for the data processing means toassign data stored in one of the physical interfaces to another physicalinterface in response to the pen input operation executed across two ormore than two of the physical interfaces. Further, it is also possibleto externally display the assigned data to the position at which theother physical interface is disposed so that visual feedback can beeffected.

[0037] Concretely, according to the data input/output system related tothe present invention, by way of applying such a transparent tile whichburies an identification data storing means like a wireless tag as anindividual interface unit, it is possible to construct such an easy andintelligible interactive technique based on the arrangement of the tileon a flat display or tablet surface. Further, in response to the set-upof the tiles, i.e., the physical interfaces, the data input/outputsystem reads identification data contained in the wireless tag, and thenactivates the corresponding processing operation. For example, the datainput and output system accesses such data resources related to thetiles and then activates the corresponding function and applicationprogram. Further, based on physical positional relationship betweenplural tiles, it is also possible to combine basic capacity provided byindividual tiles.

[0038] The second aspect of the present invention provides a method ofinputting and outputting data for realizing an interactive technique viaoperation of the physical interfaces on a visual interface comprising asubstantially flat operational surface for accommodating a number ofphysical interfaces and display function for displaying data on theoperational display surface. The inventive data input/output methodcomprises the following: an identifying step for identifying physicalinterfaces disposed on the operational display surface; and a dataprocessing step for executing data processing operation corresponding tothe result of identifying the physical interfaces executed via the aboveidentifying step and an ensuing step of externally displaying theprocessed result on the visual interface.

[0039] The data input/output method according to the second aspect ofthe present invention may further comprise a digitizing step for readingpen input data shown via the operational surface of the visual interfaceand the physical interfaces disposed on the operational surface thereof.

[0040] In this case, the above data processing step executes a dataprocessing operation in correspondence with combination ofidentification data held by the physical interfaces disposed on theoperational surface and the pen input data added to the physicalinterfaces.

[0041] Further, the above data processing step may also execute a dataprocessing operation in correspondence with combination ofidentification data held by two or more than two of the physicalinterfaces disposed on the operational panel or the data processing stepmay also execute such a data processing operation in correspondence withidentification data held by two or more than two of the physicalinterfaces disposed on the operational panel and the pen input dataadded to the physical interfaces.

[0042] Further, the above data processing step may also execute such adata processing operation assigned to a specific identification data inresponse to the result of detecting the corresponding identificationdata from the physical interfaces disposed on the operational surface ofthe visual interface and then externally display the processed resultonto the position at which the corresponding physical interface isdisposed in order that visual feedback can be effected. The processassigned to the identification data comprises such an operation toaccess an application program and data resources and linkage with anreal world physical object for example.

[0043] Further, the above data processing step may also execute such aprocess to assign data held by one of the physical interfaces adjoininganother physical interface in response to the result of detecting thecorresponding identification data from the corresponding physicalinterface disposed on the operational surface of the visual interfaceand then externally display the assigned data to the position at whichthe corresponding physical interface is disposed so that visual feedbackcan be effected.

[0044] Further, in response to the result of detecting any specificidentification data from one of the physical interfaces disposed on theoperational surface of the visual interface, the data processing stepassigns data held by one of the physical interfaces adjoining the abovephysical interface to a remotely disposed physical interface related tothe above physical interface, and then externally displays the assigneddata at the position at which the remotely disposed physical interfaceis present, whereby effecting visual feedback.

[0045] Further, the data processing step may also execute such anoperation to assign data stored in one of the physical interfaces toanother physical interface in response to the act of adding a pen inputoperation across two or more than two of the physical interfacesdisposed side by side on the operational surface of the visualinterface. Further, it is also possible to externally display theassigned data to the position at which the assignee physical interfaceis disposed, whereby effecting visual feedback as well.

[0046] The third aspect of the present invention provides such a memorymedium which physically stores a computer software based on thecomputer-readable format. The computer software describes such a datainput/output process to be compatible with execution on a computersystem. The data input/output process provides such an interactivetechnique via operation of the physical interfaces on the visualinterface incorporating a substantially flat operational surface foraccommodating the physical interfaces thereon and such display functionfor displaying data on the operational surface. The inventive computersoftware comprises the following: an identifying step for identifyingphysical interfaces disposed on the operational surface of the visualinterface; and a data processing step for processing data incorrespondence with the result of identifying the physical interfacesidentified via the above identifying step and an ensuing step ofexternally displaying the processed result on the visual interface.

[0047] The computer-readable memory medium according to the third aspectof the present invention comprises such a medium which provides ageneral-purpose computer system capable of executing a variety ofprogram codes for example with a computer program based on a specificcomputer-readable format. The above-referred medium comprises such adetachable and portable memory medium such as a compact disc, a floppydisc, or a magneto-optical disc, or the like, for example. It is alsotechnically possible to provide a specific computer system with acomputer program via a transmission medium such as a network servicebased on wireless transmission or cable transmission.

[0048] The above program memory medium defines structural or functionalcooperative relationship between the computer program and the memorymedium in order to realize proper function of a specific computerprogram on a computer system. In other words, by way of installing aspecific computer program into a computer system via the program memorymedium related to the third aspect of the present invention, cooperativeaction is exerted on the computer system, whereby making it possible toachieve such an operating effect similar to that is attainable via theabove-referred data input/output system and the data input/output methodaccording to the first and second aspects of the present invention.

[0049] Still further aspects, features, and advantages of the presentinvention will more fully be clarified by the following descriptionbased on the description of the preferred embodiments and theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050]FIG. 1 designates an overall perspective view of the Data-Tilesystem according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051]FIG. 2 designates a plan view and a perspective view of the tile50 comprising a fundamental construction;

[0052]FIG. 3 designates a chart for explanatory of weather forecast dataoutput onto screen on the back of a tile assigned to a weather chart anda map data to be combined with the satellite photographs;

[0053]FIG. 4 designates a Map-Tile containing a previously printed planview and a sketch view inside of a building site;

[0054]FIG. 5 designates a Scroll-Tile inscribed with a linear groove forfunctioning as a guide while the scroll operation is underway;

[0055]FIG. 6 designates a diagram illustrating projections and recessesfinely formed on wall surface of the groove of scroll bars for promotingsense of operating a Widget;

[0056]FIG. 7 designates a diagram illustrating an annular groove formedon the surface of the tile 50 in order to provide a Widget which rotatesitself like a jog dial;

[0057]FIG. 8 designates a perspective view of an example of a flatdisplay unit 11 as seen from the upper surface;

[0058]FIG. 9 designates a schematic illustration of cross-section of theflat display unit 11;

[0059]FIG. 10 designates a functional block diagram for explanatory ofthe operation for reading RF-ID from a wireless tag 53 built in the tile50;

[0060]FIG. 11 designates a diagram illustrating an aspect of forminginterfaces by way of disposing the tile 50 equipped with an ID tag onthe flat display unit 11;

[0061]FIG. 12 designates a schematic diagram of another example of thecross-sectional structure of the flat display unit 11;

[0062]FIG. 13 designates a schematic diagram illustrating hardwareconstruction of a computer system 100;

[0063]FIG. 14 designates an aspect of a memo-pad allocated applicationtile disposed on a flat display in which the corresponding applicationprogram is activated; and another aspect in which additional memorandumis written onto this application tile;

[0064]FIG. 15 designates a chart illustrating an application tileassigned to weather forecast data, where the application tile isdisposed on the flat display unit 11; the chart illustrates such anaspect in which motion display images such as weather forecast data andsatellite photographs are combined with still image data such as a whitemap printed on the tile to designate such an aspect in which visual datapertaining to weather forecast is reinforced;

[0065]FIG. 16 designates a chart illustrating such an aspect in whichmotion display data pertaining to the condition of a printer is combinedwith picture pattern of the printer printed on the tile in response tothe setting of a Printer-Tile assigned to a specific printer on the flatdisplay unit 11, whereby visual data related to the printer isreinforced;

[0066]FIG. 17 designates a chart illustrating such an aspect in whichreal video image from a camera shooting a printer is displayed by way ofutilizing transparent area of the tile in response to the setting of aPrinter-Tile assigned to a specific printer on the flat display unit 11;

[0067]FIG. 18 designates an operating example when an Query-Tile is setto a position adjoining a portal tile expressing a printer;

[0068]FIG. 19 designates an operating example when an Query-Tileidentical to the one shown in FIG. 18 is set to a position adjoining aMap-Tile shown in FIG. 4;

[0069]FIG. 20 designates a chart illustrating such an aspect in whichdata is transferred, exchanged, and copied by way of performing pengesture via a drag and drop operation between a Container-Tile andanother adjoining tile; more concretely, such an aspect is shown, inwhich painting image data is transferred between a Container-Tile andanother adjoining Paint-Tile;

[0070]FIG. 21 designates a chart illustrating such an aspect in whichpainted picture data is transferred between a Container-Tile and anotheradjoining Paint-Tile;

[0071]FIG. 22 designates a chart illustrating such an aspect in whichdata is transferred, exchanged, and copied by way of performing pengesture via the drag and drop movement between a Container-Tile andanother adjoining tile; more concretely, such an aspect is shown, inwhich data on a Container-Tile is transferred to a Printer-Tile;

[0072]FIG. 23 designates a chart illustrating such an aspect in whichdata on a Container-Tile is transferred to a Printer-Tile;

[0073]FIG. 24 designates a chart for explanatory of a pick and dropoperation; more concretely, such an aspect is shown, in which GUIoperation is continued between display screens of adjoining lap-top typecomputers, where digital object on a display is dropped onto anotherdisplay across real spaces;

[0074]FIG. 25 designates a chart illustrating such an aspect in which aplurality of Movie-Tiles are aligned in a row in the horizontaldirection, and then, pen gesture for drag on these tiles is added tocause the Container-Tile to terminate drag movement;

[0075]FIG. 26 designates a chart illustrating an operating example of aRemote-Tile; more concretely, such an aspect is shown, in which penoperation and picture data on a master tile is transmitted to a slavetile via a communication network;

[0076]FIG. 27 designates a chart illustrating cooperative operation viaa Map-Tile and a portal tile; more concretely, such an aspect is shown,in which presence of real world objects assigned to the portal tile isdisplayed on the Map-Tile by way of placing the Map-Tile on a positionadjoining the portal tile;

[0077]FIG. 28 designates a chart illustrating cooperative operation viathe Map-Tile and the portal tile; more concretely, such an aspect isshown, in which real world objects that should be assigned to the portaltile is specified by way of placing the Map-Tile on a position adjoiningthe portal tile and by way of designating a specific position on theMap-Tile with a pen;

[0078]FIG. 29 designates a chart illustrating cooperative operation viathe Container-Tile and the portal tile; more concretely, such an aspectis shown, in which snap shot of picture displayed on the portal tile isstored in a Container-Tile in response to pen gesture performed betweentiles;

[0079]FIG. 30 designates cooperative operation via the Parameter-Tilesand the portal tiles; more concretely, such an aspect is shown, in whicha Time-axis-Tile is disposed at a position adjoining a Memo-pad-Tile,and then, past editing contents designated on the Time-axis-Tile aredisplayed on the Memo-pad-Tile;

[0080]FIG. 31 designates cooperative operation via a Parameter-Tile andan application tile; more concretely, such an aspect is shown, in whichpicture data painted at the time designated on the time axis is printedby applying the portal tile;

[0081]FIG. 32 designates a chart for exemplifying pen gesture fortriggering discrete transfer of data; more concretely, such an aspect isshown, in which trigger for ing data is effected by such a dragoperation for traversing tiles;

[0082]FIG. 33 designates a chart for exemplifying pen gesture fortriggering discrete transfer of data; more concretely, such an aspect isshown, in which trigger for transferring data is effected by way oftracing boundary between tiles;

[0083]FIG. 34 designates a chart for exemplifying pen gesture fortriggering discrete transfer of data; more concretely, such an aspect isshown in which trigger for transferring data is effected by way ofperforming pen gesture for linking a pair of discretely disposed tiles;

[0084]FIG. 35 designates a flowchart designating serial processesexecuted when a Weather-Tile is operated on the flat display unit 11;

[0085]FIG. 36 designates a flowchart designating serial processesexecuted when a Printer-Tile is operated on the flat display unit 11;

[0086]FIG. 37 designates a flowchart designating serial processesexecuted when data contents held by plural tiles are stored in aContainer-Tile en bloc;

[0087]FIG. 38 designates a flowchart designating serial processesexecuted for purchasing data contents on the Data-Tile system via aCommerce-Tile; and

[0088]FIG. 39 designates an aspect in which the Commerce-Tile isdisposed at a position adjoining a Music-Tile.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0089] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, practical embodimentsof the present invention are described below.

[0090] A: Overall Construction of a Data-Tile System:

[0091] The present invention proposes a Data-Tile system as an interfaceplatform system for harmonizing an real world physical interface with avisual interface provided by computer space for constituting one ofpractical embodiments of the present invention. In the Data-Tile system,the interface is constituted by way of disposing a transparent object(this will be referred to as a tile in the following description)attached with an ID tag capable of notifying identification data via awireless means (this will be referred to as a wireless tag or an “RF-ID”in the following description) on a flat display surface.

[0092] A-1: Basic Construction of the Data-Tile System:

[0093]FIG. 1 designates an overall perspective view of the Data Tilesystem according to an aspect of the present invention. In order to readidentification data from the disposed tiles, a plurality of readingelements are disposed on a flat display surface in latticed form atsubstantially equal intervals. Details of the reading elements will bedescribed later on.

[0094] When an individual user sets the tiles on a flat display surface,initially, the system reads relevant identification data and thenactivates a corresponding process or such a process assigned to theidentification data. The process may include such an operation to accessdata resources related to tiles (in this case, identification data maybe related to a specific URL (Uniform Resource Locator) for example), orthe process may include function or an application program. Actually,the process related to tiles corresponds to such a data processingoperation executed on a computer system locally linked with a flatdisplay surface (or the process related to tiles corresponds to such adata processing operation via cooperative action with a computer systemthrough a network service).

[0095] Individual the tiles are made from transparent material such asacrylic resin, and thus, even when the tiles are disposed on a flatdisplay surface, display contents are prevented from being shielded.Because of this, it is possible for the system side to provide such adisplay window having such a window frame corresponding to the positionsof installed individual tiles and an outer frame thereof on the flatdisplay surface via transparent areas of individual tiles.

[0096] Concretely, when a certain tile is placed on a certain positionon the flat display surface, identification data proper to this tile andthe disposed position thereof are identified. Accordingly, this leads torealization of such an interaction in which the tile setting area isactivated to cause the processed contents assigned to the tileidentification data to be displayed within the tile-setting area. Dataowned by each tile comprising a transparent object remains static.However, by causing data assigned to the tile to be displayed via adisplay unit below the tile, it is possible to constitute such aninterface with reinforced visual data. In this case, it is possible tocause physical interface in real space called a tile to be combined witha visual interface in computer space called a display on a flat displaysurface based on an instinctively intelligible form.

[0097] According to the Data Tile system of this invention shown in theaccompanying drawings, a static object although physical is combinedwith a dynamic display data although virtual are able to be combined toutilize a variety of uses. Details of the actual utilization form willbe described later on.

[0098] When a flat display is concurrently with such a tablet capable ofaccommodating pen input, by way of executing pen input operation on thetile surface, it is possible to jointly execute real world operation viaphysical object and such a screen operation conforming to something likea GUI (Graphic User Interface).

[0099] Further, by way of disposing a plurality of tiles on a flatdisplay surface, it is possible to dynamically combine such functionsassigned to individual tiles to constitute complex system condition andinstructions. Details of the combination of plural tiles will also bedescribed later on.

[0100] For example, it is also possible for a plurality of individualusers to individually operate desired tiles by way of surrounding a flatdisplay surface. In this case, the flat display becomes such anelectronically reinforced desk, in other words, it becomes workingspace.

[0101] A-2: Comparison to the Existing Interface Systems:

[0102] Such a concept for realizing interaction with a computer via atransparent object is preceded by a GUI interactive method called a ToolGlass and Magic Lens [refer to annotation 6]. Likewise, such an realworld-oriented interface by way of utilizing a physical object forconstituting interface is also preceded by a technology called aNavi-Cam [refer to annotation 7]. Likewise, there is such a precedingexample of a system utilizing a transparent physical object called aTransparent Props [refer to annotation 8]. However, none of the abovecited preceding technologies constitutes an interface via physicaldisposition of a transparent object.

[0103] Many of preceding proposals pertaining to a user interface by wayof utilizing a real object (for example, refer to annotations [1]˜[4])are oriented for specific uses. In other words, unlike the GUI presentedby the present invention, those preceding proposals fail to balancebetween general-purpose expression capability and affinity of a realobject.

[0104] One of the preceding arts called an Intelligent-Pad [refer toannotation 9] synthesizes various functions by way of adheringrectangular objects called a pad on a display screen under a visualprogramming environment. This technology is analogous to one aspect ofthe Data-Tile system of the present invention because of synthesizingfunctions via combination of tiles. However, the precedingIntelligent-Pad does not constitute such an interface provided withreinforced visual data based on display output via a transparent object.

[0105] Another preceding technology called an Algo-Block [refer toannotation 2] corresponds to such an education system for executingprogramming via linkage of a cubic body incorporating a micro-processorand switches, and thus, this technology is also analogous to theData-Tile system in that it also utilizes a specific real object as anunit. However, output from a module provided for the above Algo-Blocksystem is simply based on blinking of light emitting diodes, and thus,it can hardly transmit such data beyond simple feedback. When utilizingsuch a normal display output unit, input operation via a real objectcannot directly be responded by display, whereby retarding user'scomprehension. Further, unlike the GUI of the present invention, inputmeans provided for this conventional technology is confined withinsimple means such as buttons and switches without properly supporting avariety of interactive means and expansibility. Further, inasmuch aselectronic parts of the above system are built in a cubic body, freedomfor determining price and size is restricted, which in turn requiresfurther work to devise such means for providing the cubic body withpower source and communication routes.

[0106] On the other hand, inasmuch as the Data-Tile system of thepresent invention introduces such a system to display data from theback-surface side (corresponding to the display-setting surface) of atransparent object, those problems existing in the above Algo-Blocksystem can be solved. Accordingly, it is possible for the Data-Tilesystem to establish such a directly responsive relationship betweeninput and output, whereby enabling the inventive system to utilizeversatile interactive means via pen input operation or the like.Further, inasmuch as individual tiles dispense with provision ofspecific hardware components except for a wireless tag (this will bedescribed later on), the inventive Data-Tile system can be manufacturedat an inexpensive cost.

[0107] In many cases, such a system with an electronically reinforceddesk projects video image from a projector onto the desk surface (referto annotations 1, 10, 11, 12, and 13). Each of these systems realizessuch a “real object with reinforced visual data” by way of projectingvideo image onto a predetermined projection surface such as a desk viavisual perception of an real object. However, any of these systemsrequires provision of a projector on a desk and a camera for visualperception, and thus, practical scale of the system tends to beexpanded.

[0108] On the other hand, the Data-Tile system of the present inventioncan be realized by way of providing such a construction in which each ofindividual sensors for reading wireless tags buried in individual tilesis integrally secured to a flat display surface such as an LCD (LiquidCrystal Display). In other words, by way of storing all the structuralelements inside of a horizontal type tray, it is possible to enhancestability and portability of the Data-Tile system.

[0109] B: Basic Structural Elements of the Data-Tile System:

[0110] The Data-Tile system according to the present inventioncomprises: a plurality of tiles 50 functioning themselves as a physicalinterface that can directly be operated via user's manual handlingoperation; a flat display unit 11 functioning as a visual interfacecapable of providing a user with visual feedback, and a computing system100 for arithmetically processing user's input and output operations viathe above physical and visual interfaces.

[0111] First, construction of the tiles 50 utilized as a physicalinterface for a user is described below.

[0112]FIG. 2 exemplifies a plan view and a perspective view of the tile50 having a basic construction. The tile 50 is made from such atransparent rectangular acrylic sheet, and each of the tiles 50 sharesone of the basic elements of the interface in the Data-Tile system ofthe present invention. As is apparent from FIG. 2, each of the tiles 50comprises a transparent area 51, a title bar 52, and a wireless tag 53containing RF-ID data.

[0113] When the tile 50 is disposed on the flat display unit 11, thetransparent area 51 enables the display contents output from anactivated display area to permeate itself in the upper surfacedirection.

[0114] The title bar 52 corresponds to such an area for visuallyidentifying the name given to the tile 50 or the processed contentsassigned to the tile 50. For example, using a conventional printingtechnique, it is possible to form the title bar 52 on the back surfaceor the front surface of the tile 50. Alternatively, the title bar 52 mayalso be formed via inscription or adhesion of printed medium.

[0115] The transparent area 51 is utilized to feed such output contentsto be displayed on the flat display unit 11 including such variable datavarying itself every moment via arithmetic processes executed by thecomputing system 100. On the other hand, the title bar 52 is utilizedfor feeding such data fixed on the tile 50.

[0116] The wireless tag 53 consists of such a device containingidentification data proper to the tile 50. The wireless tag 53oscillates frequency-modulated RF-ID waves corresponding toidentification data in response to the reception of such wavescontaining a specific frequency.

[0117] When implementing the present invention, the wireless tag 53 isburied in a wireless-tag-inserting hole 53′ formed through an endsurface of the tile 50. Inasmuch as the wireless tag 53 itself isopaque, as shown in FIG. 2, it is desired that the wireless tag 53 besuperposed on the title bar 52 instead of disposing it within thetransparent area 51.

[0118] As will be described later on, the frequency-modulated RF-IDwaves oscillated from the wireless tag 53 are received by the flatdisplay unit 11 and then decoded by the computing system 100 to activateproper function assigned to the tile 50 to cause the processed result tobe displayed on the flat display unit 11 via the transparent area 51 ofthe tile 50.

[0119] For example, when setting the tile 50 assigned to a weather chartonto the flat display unit 11, presence of the tile 50 is visiblydetected on the flat display unit 11. Further, such contents dataincluding weather forecast data and satellite photographs are acquiredfrom an external server (not shown) via internet for example as a resultof arithmetic operation executed by the computing system 100, and then,the acquired contents data are displayed below the tile 50.

[0120] Some of the tiles 50 are previously printed or formed intopicture image designating assigned functions, or a visual dataorganically combined with display contents shown on the flat displayunit 11. For example, in the case of a Weather-Tiles assigned to aweather chart, it is also allowable to print such a map data (white map)used in combination with visually output weather forecast data orsatellite photograph on the back surface of the tile 50 (refer to FIG.3).

[0121] Further, when setting a previously printed Map-Tile (refer toFIG. 4) such as a plan view or a sketch view of floor inside of abuilding onto the flat display unit 11, by way of displaying desireddata such as distribution of floor temperature or location of aninstalled printer or a copying machine for example from the underneathof the tile 50, desired data is synthesized with printing data of thetile 50.

[0122] Further, it is also allowable to form a groove on the tilesurface for guiding operation of a pen tip when inputting data with apen. For example, by way of forming a linear groove (refer to FIG. 5) ata position corresponding to a scroll bar of the window displayed belowthe tile, the formed linear groove functions as a guide for operatingthe scroll operation. For example, it is also allowable to synthesizesuch a Scroll-Tile with a groove by way of displaying dynamic data suchas knob of the scroll bar on the flat display unit 11. When operatingthe pen on the Scroll-Tile, it is possible to provide a Widget(functioning as interactive parts on the screen) with such physicalsense to feel movement of the pen along the guide groove. Inventors ofthe present invention call it in terms of the Grooved-Widget.

[0123] By way of providing the Grooved-Widget, a variety of techniquescan be applied in order to promote sense of operating a conventionalWidget. For example, by way of forming fine projections and recesses(refer to FIG. 6) on a wall of the groove provided for the scroll bar,it is possible to add click sense to the pen tip at specific intervalswhile operating the scroll operation. It was difficult to generate suchclick sense via the GUI operation while using any conventional mouse.Further, by way of forming physical texture such as rough feeling,smooth feeling, and touch of a cloth or rubber, for example, on thegroove surface, it is possible to provide a variety of operating sense.

[0124] Further, as shown in FIG. 7, by way of forming annular grooves onthe surface of the tile 50, it is possible to provide such Widgetcapable of rotating itself like a jog dial.

[0125] B-2: Flat Display Unit:

[0126] Next, construction of the flat display unit 11 functioning as avisual interface is described below.

[0127]FIG. 8 presents a perspective view of the flat display unit 11 asseen from the upper surface.

[0128] The flat display unit 11 constitutes a data display unit fordisplaying result of arithmetic operation executed by the computingsystem 100, and yet, it also functions as a base substrate for mountingthe tiles 50 thereon. Although the flat display unit 11 can beconstituted by applying a LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), in order toaccept the pen input data, it is preferred that the flat display unit 11is integrated with a known electromagnetic induction type tablet. Inthis case, by applying a pen input means, a user can directly operatesuch data displayed on the tray. This will be described later on.

[0129] According to an example shown in FIG. 8, the lattices are formedon the upper surface of the flat display unit 11 by way of partitioningindividual areas for mounting the tiles 50. A plurality of projections12A, 12B, . . . concurrently with an RF antenna for receiving andtransmitting waves are disposed within individual lattice at suchregions to be abutted with the wireless tag 53 when disposing the tiles50. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the flat display unit 11 containstwelve areas for setting the tiles 50, where each area is provided witha unit of projections 12.

[0130] Inasmuch as each projection 12 comes into contact with thewireless tag 53 of the disposed tile 50, each projection 12 can receivemodulated wave RF-ID oscillated from the tile 50 via an RF antenna 19built therein.

[0131]FIG. 9 schematically exemplifies cross-sectional construction ofthe flat display unit 11. As shown in FIG. 9, the flat display unit 11consists of such a structural body laminated with a liquid crystal layer15 for driving the display; a back-light layer 16 for illuminating imagecontents shown in the liquid crystal layer 15 in the direction of thefront surface of the flat display unit 11; a digitizer antenna layer 17for accommodating electromagnetic inductive pen input data; and a cover18 for shielding surface of the liquid crystal layer 15 from externalatmosphere.

[0132] Further, as just mentioned above, a plurality of projections 12each incorporating an RF antenna 19 are projected from the surface ofthe flat display unit 11. An RF lead-wire connected to the RF antenna 19for data transmission and reception are inserted between the cover 18and the liquid crystal layer 15.

[0133] A group of the RF antennas 19 and the RF-ID wave readers forreading waves received by the RF antenna 19 are mutually connected by anantenna multiplexing circuit (not shown), for example. The antennamultiplexing circuit consists of such a device for electronicallyswitching a plurality of antennas via an FET (Field Effect Transistor)switch. Only one RF antenna 19 is connected to the RF-ID reader at alltimes. The switching operation of the RF antennas 19 and the readingoperation of the RF-ID number are executed by the computing system 100.Further, by virtue of the introduction of the above antenna multiplexingcircuit, irrelevant to the number of the simultaneously identifiableRF-ID data, it is possible to simplify the hardware construction.

[0134]FIG. 10 schematically designates a functional block diagram forexplanatory of an operation to read RF-ID data from the wireless tag 53built in each of the tiles 50. In the example shown in FIG. 10, anelectromagnetic transmission and reception method is introduced toeffect wireless transmission and reception.

[0135] The RD-ID reader on the part of the flat display unit 11initially amplifies waves containing 135 KHz of frequency for exampleoscillated from an oscillator, and then externally outputs the amplifiedradio waves via the RF antenna 19 for transmission and reception.

[0136] On the other hand, as a result of the setting of the tile 50 ontoa predetermined position of the flat display unit 11, the wireless tag54 approaches the RF antenna 19 for transmission and reception toproperly receive radio waves. A coil antenna provided inside of thewireless tag 53 is resonated with the received radio waves and stores=resonant energy.

[0137] A modulator is driven by such electric energy generated viaconversion of accumulated resonant energy, then executes modulationprocess for the received radio waves via AM modulation, for example, andthen generates a specific modulated frequency corresponding to the IDdata assigned to the tile 50, and finally outputs the modulatedfrequency signal via the coil antenna.

[0138] The RF antenna 19 for transmission and reception receives radiowaves containing a modulated frequency signal from the wireless tag 53.A decoder then decodes a specific identification data RF-ID assigned tothe modulated frequency signal, and then transfers the identified resultto the computing system 100.

[0139] Upon receipt of the RF-ID data, the computing system 100activates a proper function and application program defined to theinstalled tile 50, and then drives the LCD component of the flat displayunit 11 to display the processed result from the back side of the tile50.

[0140]FIG. 11 exemplifies such an aspect in which an interface isconstructed by way of disposing the tiles attached with ID tags on theflat display unit 11.

[0141] As shown in FIG. 11, variable visual data is displayed from theunderneath of a transparent physical object such as the tile 50. Byharmonizing the variable visual data with the stationary image data onthe tile 50, it is possible to construct such interface containingreinforced visual data. Concretely, practical utility is generated viaharmonization of the static real object although physical with thedynamic display data although virtual.

[0142] Further, it is also possible to jointly utilize operation of aphysical object called a tile and another GUI-oriented operation viatransfer of cursor and click operation by effect of pen input operationperformed on the surface of the tile 50. It is allowable to form suchGrooved-Widget on the surface of the tile 50 in order to guide the peninput operation as described earlier.

[0143] Further, by way of disposing a plurality of tiles on the surfaceof the flat display unit 11, it is possible to express complex conditionand instructions via combination of proper functions of individualtiles.

[0144]FIG. 12 schematically exemplifies another example of crosssectional construction of the flat display unit 11. The flat displayunit 11 shown in FIG. 12 consists of a laminated structure comprising aliquid crystal layer 15 for driving display components; a back-lightlayer 16 for illuminating image contents shown in the liquid crystallayer 15 on the surface of the flat display unit 11; a digitizer antennalayer for accepting a pen input based on the electromagnetictransmission and reception method; and a cover 18 for shielding surfaceof the liquid crystal layer 15 from external environment.

[0145] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the RF antenna 19 for receivingRF-ID waves oscillated from the wireless tag on the part of the tile 50is buried below the back-light layer 16 without emerging itself from thesurface of the flat display unit 11 as the projection 12.

[0146] In the example shown in FIG. 9, a winding direction of the coilof the RF antenna 19 buried in the projection 12 corresponds to thesuperficial direction of the flat display unit 11, and yet,wave-receiving direction of the RF antenna 19 also corresponds to thesuperficial direction thereof. On the other hand, in the example shownin FIG. 12, by way of setting the winding direction of the coil for theRF antenna 19 in the normal direction on the surface of the flat displayunit 11, it is possible to intensify receiving sensitivity. Further,inasmuch as the flat display unit 11 dispenses with provision ofprojections such as the projections 12 on its surface, the appearancebecomes smart. Further, when the flat display unit 11 does not use suchphysical object such as the tile 50, it is easily operable as a normaldisplay unit or a table.

[0147] B-3: Computing System:

[0148] Next, construction of the computing system 100 of the presentinvention is described below, which arithmetically processes userinput/output operation by way of jointly utilizing such a physicalinterface called the tile 50 and such the visual interface called a flatdisplay unit 11.

[0149]FIG. 13 schematically exemplifies a hardware construction of thecomputing system 100 of the present invention.

[0150] The central processing unit 101 so called as CPU (CentralProcessing Unit) functioning as a main controller in the computingsystem 100 executes a variety of application programs under control of aspecific OS (Operating System). Preferably, the OS (Operating System)provides a GUI (Graphic User Interface) environment. This may besufficed by applying UNIX or Windows 98/NT of Microsoft Corporation,U.S.A., for example.

[0151] As shown in FIG. 13, the CPU 101 is mutually connected to avariety of operating components (to be described later on) via a busline 107. Each of the component units on the bus 107 is provided with aproper memory address or an I/O (Input/Output) address to enable the CPU101 to access a specific component unit via these addresses. The bus 107itself constitutes a common signal transmission route comprising a databus, an address bus, and the control bus. This is typically exemplifiedby a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnecting) bus, for example.

[0152] A memory 102 stores program codes to be executed by the CPU 101or provisionally stores such working data under execution. It should beunderstood that the memory 102 shown in FIG. 13 comprises non-volatileor volatile memories.

[0153] A display controller 103 exclusively controls those processes foractually executing such data painting instructions generated by the CPU101. For example, the display controller 103 supports such function topaint a bit map corresponding to SVGA (Super Video Graphic Array) or anXGA (extended Graphic Array). Paint data processed by the displaycontroller 103 is provisionally written into a frame buffer (not shown),and then externally displayed via the liquid crystal layer 15 of theflat display unit 11.

[0154] Structurally, the flat display unit 11 of the present inventionconsists of such a display unit integrated with a tablet. As describedabove by referring to FIGS. 9 and 12, the flat display unit 11 alsoconsists of such a laminated structural body comprising the liquidcrystal layer 15 and the antenna layer 17 used for the digitizer forexecuting the pen input operation based on the electromagnetic inductionmethod.

[0155] An input-unit interface 104 is utilized to connect a user inputmeans such as a keyboard 112, a mouse 113, and a tablet integrated withthe flat display unit 11, to the computing system 100. The input-unitinterface 104 generates an interruption signal against the CPU 101 inresponse to key input via the keyboard 112, a coordinate designationinput via the mouse 113, and pen operation via the antenna layer 117used for the digitizer.

[0156] In accordance with a predetermined communication protocol such asan Ethernet or the like, a network interface 105 can be connected to alocal network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a wide area networksuch as Internet for example. Generally, the network interface 105 isprovided in the form of a LAN adaptor card which is inserted into a PCIbus slot on a mother board (not shown).

[0157] A plurality of host computers (not shown) are mutually connectedto each other on a network in a transparent condition, wherebyconstructing a decentralized computing environment. It is possible todistribute software programs and data contents onto the network. Forexample, it is possible to down-load such an application program capableof executing harmonization of a physical interface with a visualinterface via the network. Further, it is possible to down-load such anapplication program corresponding to such a function assigned to thetile 50 disposed on the flat display unit 11 via the network. Further,it is also possible to access such data resources assigned to the tile50 disposed on the flat display unit 11 via the network as well.

[0158] An external unit interface 106 enables external apparatuses suchas a HDD (Hard Disc Drive) 114 and a media drive unit 115 to be linkedwith the computing system 100. The external unit interface 106 iscompatible with a plurality of interface standards such as an IDE(Integrated Drive Electronics) and a SCSI (Small Computer SystemInterface).

[0159] The HDD 114 comprises a known external memory device whichfixedly mounts a memory carrier consisting of rotating magnetic discs.The hard disc drive 114 incorporates a greater memory capacity andfaster data transfer rate than that of other external memory devices. Anconduct of loading a software program on the hard disc driver 114 isconventionally called as installation of a program to the system.Normally, the hard disc drive 114 stores program codes, applicationprograms, and a device driver of such an operating system to be executedby the CPU 101 in a non-volatile form.

[0160] For example, it is possible to install such an applicationprogram for harmonizing a physical interface with a visual interface onthe hard disc drive 114. Further, it is also possible to install such anapplication program corresponding to such function assigned to the tile50 disposed on the flat display unit 11 on the hard disc drive 114.Further, it is also possible to down-load such data resources assignedto the tile 50 on the flat display unit 11 on the hard disc drive 114via the network.

[0161] The media drive 115 accepts a variety of portable type storagemedia such as a CD (Compact Disc), a MO (Magneto-Optical) disc, a DVD(Digital Versatile Disc), or the like, and then, accesses the datarecorded surfaces thereof.

[0162] Any of the above-cited portable type storage media is mainly usedfor backing up the software programs and the data files ascomputer-readable data and also for transferring them between computersystems for the purpose of marketing and distributing them. For example,according to those portable media, it is possible to physicallydistribute the application program corresponding to such function forharmonizing a physical interface with a visual interface, functionassigned to the tile 50 disposed on the flat display unit 11 and thedata resources assigned to the tile 50 disposed on the flat display unit11 between corresponding computer systems.

[0163] The above computing system 100 exemplified in FIG. 13 consists ofsuch a computer compatible with or successor to the IBM's personalcomputer standard called as PC/AT (Personal Computer/AdvancedTechnology), a product of International Business Machine Corporation,U.S.A. It is of course possible to utilize such a computer incorporatingother architectures as the computing system 100 of the presentinvention.

[0164] Practically, harmonization of a physical interface and a visualinterface according to the Data-Tile system of the present invention isrealized by way of activating such an application program for causingthe physical interface to be combined with visual interface on thecomputing system 100.

[0165] It is possible to construct an application software pertaining tothe Data-Tile system of the present invention by applying such aprogramming language called a Java, for example.

[0166] When a user places the tile 50 on the flat display unit 11, theData-Tile system reads the identification data RF-ID from the disposedtile 50, and then, based on the RF-ID data, the computing system 100retrieves data. If necessary, the Data-Tile system dynamically readsclassified files corresponding to RF-ID data and such data includingmemorandum data of the memo-pad proper to individual instances of thetile 50.

[0167] Inasmuch as individual tiles respectively contain proper threads,it is possible to perform animations and reproduction of moving picturesper tile with parallel processing.

[0168] When two or more than two of tiles are disposed side by side,each tile 50 dynamically checks operation groups that can be processedby the opposite-side tile in order to determine a type of combination.This process can be realized by applying function of the Java language(instance of operator) for checking object class and interface type inthe course of execution.

[0169] C: Operation of the Tiles in the Data-Tile System:

[0170] According to the Data-Tile system related to the presentinvention, it is possible to reinforce the visual data presented by thecomputing system 100 by way of harmonizing stationary printed data ownedby tile bars of individual tiles 50 with dynamic picture displayexecuted via the transparent area 52. Further, by executing such aprocess for forming the groove on the tile surface and varying touchfeeling in the course of pen input operation, it is possible tointroduce a variety of techniques for improving operating feeling ownedby the Widgets, i.e., such interactive parts on the screen.

[0171] Practical examples for constructing a variety of tiles as themodules of the user interface via application of basic function of theabove-referred Data-Tile system are described below.

[0172] C-1: Application Tile:

[0173] This description specifically refers to such tiles containingpreviously and fixedly assigned with a specific function (or anapplication program) as the application tiles.

[0174] For example, when such an application tile assigned with amemo-pad is disposed on the flat display unit 11, a manual-writingmemo-pad application program is activated on the computing system 100,and then, a memo-pad editing window is displayed via transparent area ofthe tile. This enables a user to write a memorandum on this tile with apen (refer to FIG. 14).

[0175] It is permissible to store such data written on the tile in thecomputing system 100 with reference to the corresponding Memo-pad-Tile.In this case, it is also possible to provisionally remove theMemo-pad-Tile from the flat display unit 11 and then causes the contentsof the preceding memorandum to be restored automatically by disposingthe Memo-pad-Tile again on the flat display unit 11.

[0176] Further, by way of disposing such Weather-Tile (refer to FIG. 3)assigned to a weather chart on the flat display unit 11, the abovecomputing system 100 accesses a specific server which delivers weatherforecast data via the Internet line, for example, to automaticallydown-load the weather forecast data or such contents data related tometeorological data such as satellite photographs before outputtingthese data on the display screen. This in turn causes stationary datasuch as a white map printed or imaged on the Weather-Tile to be combinedwith dynamic display data such as the weather forecast data andsatellite photographs shown on the flat display unit 11, wherebyconsequently reinforcing the visual data related to the weather chart(refer to FIG. 15).

[0177] In the same way, it is possible to embody a variety ofapplications and data services in the form of a tile for conversion intoa module. Such data services may be of the one accumulated in thestand-alone computing system 100 or the one externally acquired via acommunication medium such as the Internet service line.

[0178] Now, taking the Weather-Tile for example, referring to theflowchart shown in FIG. 35, serial steps for operating the above-citedapplication tiles on the flat display unit 11 are described below.

[0179] Initially, step S1 is underway, in which an application tile isplaced on the flat display unit 11. Next, the computing system 100 readsidentification data, i.e., the RF-ID data, held by the application tilevia the electromagnetic transmission and reception method, wherebyproceeding the process to step S2.

[0180] In response to the above data-reading operation, the Data-Tilesystem retrieves the processed contents by operating the correspondingID (IDentification) data as a key, whereby entering into step S3.

[0181] Next, step S4 is entered, in which the retrieved process isexecuted. When dealing with the Weather-Tile shown in FIG. 15, thecomputing system 100 accesses a weather forecast site. Result ofexecution of the accessing operation is displayed at the tile-disposedposition on the flat display unit 11 to enable a user to visuallyconfirm the displayed result via a transparent area of the Weather-Tile.

[0182] As will be described later on, by way of cooperating with othertiles, the application tile can execute more sophisticated processes.

[0183] C-2: Portal Tile:

[0184] Such a specific tile corresponding to real world objectsincluding humans, physical objects, and locations, is referred to as aportal tile in this description.

[0185] For example, such a Printer-Tile corresponding to one of examplesof the portal tile expresses such an real world object called a printeras a tile. When the Printer-Tile is disposed on the flat display unit11, in response to this action, the computing system 100 accesses acorresponding printer to acquire the actual condition, and then causesthe actual printer condition to be displayed via transparent area of thePrinter-Tile. In this case, picture image printed by the correspondingprinter is combined with dynamic display data to designate the actualcondition, whereby reinforcing the visual data (refer to FIG. 16).

[0186] Further, it is possible to provide such function for deliveringdata acquired from an adjoining tile to the printer. When transferringdata from an adjoining tile, it is possible to utilize such aninteractive technique fixed in the GUI environment such as the drag anddrop operation executed between tiles via the pen input operation, forexample. This will also be described later on.

[0187] The portal tile may be connected to image of a corresponding realworld physical object. For example, in response to the conduct ofplacing the Printer-Tile on the flat display unit 11, it is possible forthe computing system 100 to acquire a real picture image from a camerashooting an actual printer via a network service line and then displaypicture image of the real object via transparent area of the portal tile(refer to FIG. 17). In this case, a user can observe actual aspect ofthe printer output via the Printer-Tile. In other words, the portal tileliterally provides such function serving as an entrance window into thereal world.

[0188] Taking the Printer-Tile for example, referring now to theflowchart shown in FIG. 36, serial steps for operating the portal tileon the flat display unit 11 are described below.

[0189] Initially, step S11 is entered, in which a tile A holding thedata is disposed on the flat display unit 11. The tile A holding thedata refers to such tiles including such an application tile(Paint-Tile) containing picture-data file and such a photographic tilecontaining static picture data such as photographs, for example.

[0190] Initially, the tile A is disposed on the flat display unit 11whereby entering into step S11. In response to this, the computingsystem 100 reads an identification data, i.e., RF-ID data, held by thetile A via the electromagnetic transmission and reception method. Inresponse, the Data-Tile system retrieves the processed contents byapplying the corresponding identification data as a key and thenexecutes the retrieved processes. This activates step S12, in which theprocessed result is displayed on the flat display unit 11 the viatransparent area of the tile A.

[0191] Next, the Printer-Tile as one of examples of the portal tile isdisposed at a position adjoining the tile A, whereby entering into stepS13. The computing system 100 then reads such an identification data,i.e., RF-ID data, owned by the Printer-Tile by applying the electromagnetic transmission and reception method. This in turn enables theData-Tile system to retrieve the corresponding physical object in thereal world and then display the real image of the printer via thetransparent area of the portal tile.

[0192] Next, such a pen gesture by way of traversing from the tile A tothe Printer-Tile is input on the tile, whereby activating step S14.

[0193] The above-mentioned pen gesture is detected by a digitizer basedon the electromagnetic induction method to enable the computing system100 to identify the detected results. Next, step S15 is entered, inwhich contents displayed on the tile A is printed by the printercorresponding to the portal tile. In the meantime, the Data-Tile systemtransfers data between the corresponding physical objects.

[0194] C-3: Parameter Tile:

[0195] This description specifically refers to such a tile for adjustingfunctions and properties of other tiles as a Parameter-Tile, which actsitself as a kind of property sheet.

[0196] Such a tile superficially inscribed with a plurality of groovesfor guiding the pen input operation performed by a user as the one shownin FIGS. 5 and 7 may be utilized for constituting the Parameter-Tile.

[0197] For example, it is possible to utilize such a tile inscribed witha plurality of linear grooves as the one shown in FIG. 5. In order todynamically retrieve data from adjoining tiles such as an applicationtile or a portal tile, such a Query-Tile may also be used. Name andvalue of the retrieving parameter are variable in correspondence withadjoining tiles, which are jointly synthesized with display pictureimage shown on the flat display unit 11.

[0198] Further, it is also possible to utilize such a tile inscribedwith a circular groove shown in FIG. 7 as a Time-axis(time-machine)-Tile for adjusting time data corresponding to rotaryangle or functioning as a Jog-dial Tile.

[0199]FIG. 18 exemplifies an operating example when the Query-Tile isdisposed at a position adjacent to a portal tile that is expressing aprinter.

[0200] As shown in FIG. 7, in order to adjust attributes (designation ofbrightness, tint, and color) of a printer in correspondence withpositions of grooves formed in the Query-Tile, a picture image is shownon the flat display unit 11. In consequence, those grooves for guidingthe pen input operation and the picture image showing the printer'sattributes are synthesized, whereby providing such an interface withreinforced visual data.

[0201] By way of manually moving the pen tip along a predeterminedgroove, a user can optionally vary the values of the correspondingattributes of the printer.

[0202]FIG. 19 exemplifies an operating example when the Query-Tileidentical to the one shown in FIG. 18 is set to a position adjacent tothe Map-Tile shown in FIG. 4.

[0203] As shown in FIG. 19, in order to adjust environmental conditionsuch as illumination, room temperature, and humidity inside of the floordisplayed on the Map-Tile, in correspondence with positions of thosegrooves formed in the Query-Tile, a picture image is shown on the flatdisplay unit 11. In consequence, those grooves for guiding the pen inputoperation are synthesized with the picture image exhibiting actualenvironmental condition of the floor, whereby providing such aninterface with reinforced visual data. Further, even when utilizing anidentical Query-Tile, because of the difference between adjoining tiles,it is possible to provide a discrete property sheet.

[0204] Further, by way of manually moving the pen tip along apredetermined groove, a user can optionally vary the values of theenvironmental value of the corresponding floor.

[0205] C-4: Container-Tile:

[0206] This description specifically refers to such a tile for storingdata and contents data as Container-Tile.

[0207] By way of disposing the Container-Tile at a position adjacent toanother tile capable of holding any data for example, it is possible forthe Container-Tile to transfer, exchange, and copy data via execution ofpen gesture such as the drag and drop movement between tiles. By causingthe computing system 100 to sustain such data specified against such anobject symbolized by the Container-Tile in the related form for example,it is possible to realize such Container-Tile.

[0208] For example, FIGS. 20 and 21 respectively illustrate such anaspect in which paint data is transferred between the Container-Tile andthe adjoining Paint-Tile.

[0209] Initially, when the Paint-Tile is disposed on the flat displayunit 11, the computing system 100 identifies a specific RF-ID data ownedby the corresponding wireless tag 53, and then activates a correspondingPaint-Tile. Next, by applying a transparent area of the Paint-Tile,paint picture area is shown on the flat display unit 11. Because ofthis, a user can paint any desired picture on the Paint-Tile by way ofexecuting the pen input operation.

[0210] After completing a picture painting operation on the Paint-Tile,a user adds such a pen gesture onto the Paint-Tile by way of drag anobject from the Paint-Tile to the Container-Tile. As a result, picturecontents painted onto the Paint-Tile are transferred to theContainer-Tile or copied. Simultaneously, as shown in FIG. 21, visualfeedback is given to a user in order that such a picture data identicalto that of the adjoining Paint-Tile can be shown via transparent area ofthe Container-Tile.

[0211] Such a paint picture data edited on a painting application isrealized by causing the computing system 100 to hold such paintedpicture data edited via the painting application program based on amethod related to the Container-Tile or related to the RF-ID data of theContainer-Tile. Thenceforth, it is possible to carry related picturedata through the medium of an real world physical object called aContainer-Tile. Further, it is possible to access accumulated picturedata merely by placing the Container-Tile on the flat display unit 11.

[0212]FIGS. 22 and 23 respectively illustrate such an aspect in whichdata is transferred between the Container-Tile and an adjoining portaltile. It is assumed in the exemplified illustration that painted picturedata is held by the Container-Tile via the above-referred processes. Inthis example, the Printer-Tile is used for serving as a portal tile. Inresponse to the transfer of data from the Container-Tile to thePrinter-Tile, the real world printer assigned to the portal tileexecutes printing operation of the transferred data.

[0213] Further, when the Container-Tile previously provided with paintedpicture data is disposed on the flat display unit 11, an RF-ID dataowned by a wireless tag of the Container-Tile is identified. Then, thecomputing system 100 reads the painted picture data assigned to theContainer-Tile to cause the corresponding picture data to be shown onthe flat display unit 11 by applying the transparent area of theContainer-Tile.

[0214] Next, a user adds such a pen gesture onto the Printer-Tile by wayof drag an object from the Container-Tile to the adjoining Printer-Tile.As a result, the painted picture data is transferred from theContainer-Tile to the Printer-Tile to cause the real world printerassigned to the Printer-Tile to execute an operation to print thetransferred data.

[0215] Simultaneously, the computing system 100 may acquire real imagefrom a camera shooting the actual printer via a network service line,and then, display image of real object, in other words, actual aspect ofthe print output by applying the transparent area of the Printer-Tile.

[0216] By utilizing the Container-Tile, it is possible to cause data tobe transferred between computers in order to effect a pick and drop[refer to annotation 14] and/or a media block [refer to annotation 15].For example, by way of storing the picture data such as stationarypictures and moving pictures in the Container-Tile, in other words, byassigning to the Container-Tile, it is possible to reproduce data on theother tiles.

[0217] The operation called pick and drop cited above corresponds tosuch an aspect in which the GUI operation called drag and drop has beenexpanded in the real space. Actually, this corresponds to such aninteractive technique comprising the transfer of a plurality of dataobjects between a plurality of computers into mapping of instinctiveoperation in the real world. When pointer exceeds picture screen viacontinuous drag of a certain object on a desk top of a computer forallowing user's pen input operation, the drag operation is continued upto a desk top of another adjoining computer to lead to appearance of thepointer as of the state of drag the corresponding object.

[0218] When the pointer on the desk top of another computer arrives atan end of the picture screen, the pointer disappears as of the state ofdrag some object. This action is called a pick of digital object. Suchaction to cause the pointer to appear itself on the desk top of anothercomputer as of the state by way of continuing drag of the correspondingobject is called a drop of the object. On the other hand, entity(comprising data files for example) of the corresponding object on thebackground of such a computer for executing the pick and drop process istransferred via a network line. FIG. 24 illustrates such an aspect inwhich a digital object is subject to the above pick and drop processbetween adjoining lap-top type computers. The pick and drop process isalready disclosed in the Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No.H11-53236 of 1999 which is also assigned to the Applicant of the presentinvention.

[0219] It is possible for the above Container-Tile to combine those dataheld by plural tiles altogether and to store them. For example, as shownin FIG. 25, it is possible for the Container-Tile to store individualmoving pictures such as video clips, for example, by combining them witheach other via serial steps including alignment of Movie-Tiles in thehorizontal direction and a process of adding such a pen gesture for dragon these tiles to terminate the drag process at the Container-Tile.

[0220] Referring now to the flowchart shown in FIG. 37, serial processesfor storing data contents held by a plurality of tiles en bloc isdescribed below. It is assumed that such the Movie-Tile containing moviecontents is used as the data for sustaining data contents.

[0221] First, step S21 is entered, in which, as shown in FIG. 25, aplurality of Movie-Tiles are horizontally aligned on the flat displayunit 11 in linkage with each other.

[0222] Initially, the computing system 100 reads identification data,i.e., RF-ID data, owned by individual Movie-Tiles by applying electromagnetic transmission and reception method. In response, the Data-Tilesystem retrieves the processed result by applying the corresponding IDdata as a key, and then displays the retrieved moving picture or its keyframe via transparent areas of individual tiles.

[0223] Next, step S22 is entered, in which the Container-Tile is placedon the side of the Movie-Tiles. The computing system 100 readsidentification data, i.e., RD-ID data, owned by individual Movie-Tilesby applying electromagnetic transmission and reception method, wherebyidentifying presence of the Container-Tile.

[0224] Next, step S23 is entered, in which, as shown in FIG. 25 via adot line with an arrow, the pen gesture is manually added by way oftraversing individual Movie-Tiles.

[0225] Next, step S24 is entered, in which the added pen gesture isdetected by the digitizer based on the electromagnetic induction methodto enable the computing system 100 to identify this result. Then, themovie data is stored in the Container-Tile as of the state in whichhorizontally aligned Movie-Tiles are linked with each other along thepen-input operating direction.

[0226] The data contents comprising individually linked movies arestored in the Data-Tile system in relation with identification data ofthe Container-Tile. Accordingly, by way of operating the Container-Tileon the flat display unit 11, it is possible to recall (i.e., display)the linked movies again.

[0227] The description further refers to a Macro-Tile as a modifiedexample of the Container-Tile. The Macro-Tile has such function whichinitially records the pen-input operation performed on an adjoining tileand then reproduces the recorded pen-input operation.

[0228] The above Container-Tile merely holds such data and contentsdragged on tiles. It is also possible to provide the act of storing datain the Container-Tile with such metaphor called a conduct of purchasing.In this description, such an example of applying the Container-Tile isreferred to as a Commerce-Tile.

[0229] Next, referring to the flowchart shown in FIG. 38, serialprocesses for purchasing data contents on the Data-Tile system byapplying the Commerce-Tile are described below. It is assumed that musicdata is purchased through the medium of a Music-Tile which containsmusic data.

[0230] First, step S31 is entered, in which the Music-Tile is placed onthe plain display unit 11.

[0231] Next, step S32 is entered, in which, based on the electromagnetictransmission and reception method, the computing system 100 readsidentification data, i.e., RF-ID data, owned by individual Movie-Tiles.In response, the Data-Tile system retrieves the processed result byapplying the corresponding identification data as a key, and thenreproduces the retrieved music data or sample of this music data.

[0232] Next, step S33 is entered, in which the Commerce-Tile is placedon the flat display unit 11. In response, based on the electromagnetictransmission and reception method, the computing system 100 readsidentification data, i.e., RF-ID data, owned by the Commerce-Tile,whereby identifying presence of the Commerce-Tile.

[0233]FIG. 39 illustrates such an aspect in which the Commerce-Tile isdisposed at a position adjacent to the Music-Tile. Not only the RF-IDdata for identifying the Commerce-Tile itself, but the Commerce-Tile mayalso contain a specific identification data proper to the purchasingperson or such a user authentication data as well. Further, theCommerce-Tile may also contain such a purchasing button used forentering an instruction to determine whether such a music source heardvia a corresponding sample held in the Music-Tile should be purchased ornot.

[0234] In such a case in which a user, in other words, owner of theCommerce-Tile has decided to purchase such a favorite music data afterlistening to the corresponding sample, step S34 is entered, in which theuser performs a pen input operation against the purchasing button on theCommerce-Tile. The pen input operation is detected by the digitizer viathe electromagnetic induction method to cause the computing system 100to identify the detected result, whereby activating the predeterminedpurchasing procedure.

[0235] To effect such a purchasing procedure, it is possible tointroduce such an on-line purchasing system. The purchasing procedureincludes a charging process. It is possible for the Data-Tile system toutilize a variety of settling means including: cash payment, payment viaa pre-paid card, payment via a credit card, instant payment via a debitcard, and payment via electronic money, or the like. Inasmuch as theprocedure for purchasing the data contents deviates from the essentialsof the present invention, further description is deleted.

[0236] The above description exemplifies such the Music-Tile for bearingmusic data. It is of course possible to apply the Commerce-Tile toeffect procedure for purchasing the movie data, pictures, actualcommodities, a variety of products, and a variety of services procurablevia the on-line services.

[0237] As a varied example of the utility of the Commerce-Tile, it isalso possible to dispose an authentication apparatus such as a portabletelephone for example other than such tiles incorporating RF-ID data ata position adjacent to these tiles. In this case, it is suggested for auser to prepare a certain button corresponding to the above-referredpurchasing button on the liquid crystal display on the surface of thecorresponding apparatus.

[0238] C-5: Remote-Tile:

[0239] This description specifically refers to such tiles for linking aplurality of working environments as a Remote-Tile.

[0240] The Remote-Tile comprises a master tile functioning itself as thetransmitter and a slave tile functioning as the transferee. The mastertile is set to a position adjacent to a certain tile on the flat displayunit 11, whereas the slave tile is disposed on another flat display unit11. This establishes connection between the two tiles to enable datareceived by the master tile to be transferred to the slave tile.

[0241] The computing system 100 assigns such data or contents dealt ontiles adjacent to the master tile to the master tile, and yet, thecomputing system 100 establishes such network communication with anothercomputing systems for controlling another flat display unit 11superficially disposed with the slave tile, whereby transferring datastored in the master tile. On the other hand, by utilizing thetransparent area of the slave tile, the above-referred another computingsystem visually feeds back the effect of the data transfer by causingthe received data to be displayed on the flat display unit 11. Not onlythe display contents of picture image, but the pen input data added ontothe master tile is also transferred to the slave tile.

[0242]FIG. 26 illustrates an example of the operation performed by theRemote-Tiles.

[0243] In the example shown in FIG. 26, the master tile is disposed byway of adjoining the above-referred Paint-Tile which constitutes anexample of the application tile. After identifying the RF-ID data ownedby the wireless tag of the master tile, the computing system 100transfers painted picture data edited on the Paint-Tile to theContainer-Tile or copies the picture data. Simultaneously, by utilizingtransparent area of the Container-Tile, the computing system 100provides a user with visual feedback effect by way of displaying paintedpicture data identical to that is shown on the adjoining Paint-Tile.

[0244] Next, the slave tile is disposed on another flat display unit 11.By way of reading RF-ID data owned by a wireless tag of the slave tile,another computing system tries to establish its own networkcommunication with such a computer system on the way of identifying themaster tile. On receipt of the painted picture data stored in the mastertile, by utilizing transparent area of the master tile, theabove-referred another computing system externally displays the receivedpicture data. In addition, such pen input operation added onto themaster tile is informed to the slave tile via the network service line,and then, the computing system 100 provides a user with visual feedbackby operating display screen of the flat display unit 11.

[0245] D: Synthesis of Functions via Combination of Tiles:

[0246] As described above, specific functions are assigned to individualtiles. Individual users are enabled to execute corresponding functionsmerely by way of placing tiles as physical tiles on a flat display unit11 functioning as a visual interface.

[0247] Further, by way of combining a plurality of tiles with eachother, it is possible to express further sophisticated functions viasynthesis of individual functions. The following description exemplifiessynthesis of functions based on the arrangement of the adjoining tilesto be disposed.

[0248] (1) Disposition of the Map-Tile Adjacent to Portal Tile:

[0249] By way of disposing the Map-Tile at a position adjacent to theabove referred portal tile, it is possible to check actual positions ofreal world objects corresponding to the portal tile and change therelationship between the portal tile and real world objects.

[0250] For example, by way of placing the Map-Tile at a positionadjacent to the portal tile, it is possible to display presence of realworld objects assigned to the portal tile (refer to FIG. 27).

[0251] On the other hand, by way of instructing a specific position on amap (or sketch) printed on the Map-Tile via the pen input operation,such an real world object corresponding to the specified position isnewly assigned to the portal tile. As a result, the computing systemacquires photographs from a camera on the way of shooting the newlyassigned objects, and then, by utilizing transparent area of the portaltile, displays photographed picture of the newly assigned object, ordisplay contents are switched from an old object over to a new object.

[0252] (2) Disposition of the Container-Tile Adjacent to the PortalTile:

[0253] By way of initially placing the Container-Tile at a positionadjacent to the portal tile and then adding the pen gesture via dragacross tiles, it is possible to store picture image (real picture of anassigned object) displayed on the portal tile in the Container-Tile(refer to FIG. 29).

[0254] In this case, the computing system 100 acquires snap shots ofimage photographed by a camera used for shooting real world objectsassigned to the portal tile, and then the acquired photographs arecorrespondingly stored in the Container-Tile.

[0255] (3) Disposition of the Time-Axis-Tile Adjacent to Portal Tile:

[0256] It is possible to utilize such Parameter-Tile superficiallyformed with circular grooves shown in FIG. 7 for specifying time on thetime axis. By way of disposing such Time-axis-Tile at a positionadjacent to the Memo-pad-Tile, it is possible to display the contentsedited in the past by ascending to the time specified on the time axis(refer to FIG. 30).

[0257] Further, it is also possible to execute a printing operation bydisposing the portal tile assigned to the real world printer at the sideof the Memo-pad-Tile. In this case, by adding such a pen gesture ontothe Memo-pad-Tile by way of drag picture data on the Memo-pad-Tile ontothe Printer-Tile, a printing job is issued.

[0258] Simultaneously, the computing system 100 acquires the real videoimage from a camera on the way of shooting an actual printer via thenetwork service line, and then, by utilizing transparent area of thePrinter-Tile, the computing system 100 also displays actual aspect ofthe print output operation.

[0259] Irrespective of simple function executed by individual tiles, byway of allowing combination of mutual functions between plural tiles, itis possible to construct flexible and versatile functions.

[0260] There may be such a case in which an identical tile exerts suchdifferent function in accordance with a surrounding condition. Forexample, inasmuch as the above-referred Time-axis-Tile is usable fornavigation on a tile bearing concept of time and for general purposes,by disposing the Time-axis-Tile at a position adjacent to a video tileassigned to the moving-picture display application program, theTime-axis-Tile also functions as a jog dial. On the other hand, when theTime-axis-Tile is disposed at a position adjacent to the Memo-pad-Tile,as mentioned earlier, the Time-axis-Tile functions itself as theTime-axis-Tile for recalling the contents edited in the past.

[0261] When coinciding relationship is confirmed, adjoining tiles arecombined with each other, whereby synthesizing respective functions.Form of the combination includes such a discrete type that causes datato be transferred between tiles in response to an explicit instructionsuch as user's pen input gesture and another type that causes data to betransferred automatically and continuously solely because tiles are inthe mutually adjoining relationship.

[0262] As a typical example of the former discrete type, for example,such a relationship between the Container-Tile and other tiles isexemplified (refer to FIGS. 20, 21, 22, and 23). As a typical example ofthe latter continuous type, such a process is exemplified, in which avideo tile is linked with the Remote-Tile on the master side to enableexecution of streaming against the Remote-Tile on the slave side.

[0263] FIGS. 32˜34 respectively exemplify such pen input gesture fortriggering transfer of the discrete data. FIG. 32 exemplifies such acase in which, by way of performing drag across tiles, the data transferprocess is triggered. FIG. 33 exemplifies such a case in which the datatransfer process is triggered by way of tracing boundary between tiles.Further, FIG. 34 exemplifies such a case in which the data transfer istriggered by adding the pen input gesture by way of linking a pair ofdiscretely disposed tiles with each other.

[0264] By referring to specific practical embodiments, the abovedescription has fully explained about the present invention. However, itis quite explicit that the above embodiments may be subject to propermodification or substitution within such a scope that does not deviatefrom the essentials of the present invention. Concretely, scope of thepresent invention should not be understood definitively, but the presentinvention has solely been disclosed by way of typical exemplification.In order to properly judge the essential substance of the presentinvention, contents of the appended claims should be taken intoconsideration to full extent.

[0265] As described above in full detail, according to the presentinvention, by way of integrating a physical interface present in a realspace with such a visual interface such as display for displayinglogical space of a computer, it is possible to provide such a usefuluser interface environment capable of instinctively and intelligiblyexpressing it.

[0266] Further, according to the present invention, it is possible toprovide such an easy user interface for supporting mutual cooperation ofa large number of computers such as data communicating appliancesinstalled in homes and offices.

[0267] Further, according to the present invention, it is possible toprovide such a useful user interface environment capable of easilyexecuting such operation for mutually connecting a plurality ofapparatuses for exchanging data between individual apparatuses.

[0268] According to the present invention, by way of utilizing such apen input type display tablet to serve as a visual interface, it ispossible to visually feed back action in response to operation of aphysical interface on a display tablet. Further, by way of acceptingdirect data inputting operation performed by a user via pen gesture, itis possible to utilize a variety of interactive techniques and providesuch a user interface environment that can be expressed instinctivelyand intelligibly.

[0269] According to the present invention, by way of synthesizingpicture image from a flat display unit through a transparent object suchas a tile, it is possible to provide pen-operating function on thesurface of the corresponding tile. Accordingly, it is possible toutilize a variety of interactive techniques developed via the GUI whilepreserving such a sense of operating an real object.

[0270] It is possible to utilize the Data-Tile system of the presentinvention for constituting such a digital-dashboard for controlling datacommunicating appliances installed in homes and offices. In addition, itis conceived that the Data-Tile system can also be applied to videoediting process, educational tools, electronic toys (media toys forexample), and programming tools, or the like.

[0271] For example, in terms of such a video editing tool, by way ofexpressing material (clip) such as moving picture and audio signal as atile and by way of laying out related contents, it is possible toexecute a video editing process. It is suggested that a variety of videoeffects may be expressed as a tile or the Parameter-Tile. In order toreproduce media, it is possible to utilize the Container-Tile forcarrying the editing result via activation of the above-referredTime-axis-Tile. Further, by applying the same technique, it is alsopossible to utilize the Data-Tile system for editing music data.

[0272] In regard to educational tools and electronic toys, it ispossible to execute such a programming process by way of combining aplurality of blocks as described in the Algo-Block cited earlier.According to the Data-Tile system of the present invention, inasmuch asinternal condition of individual tiles can be expressed on the surfaceof the corresponding tiles, internal condition of program can bedesignated instinctively and intelligibly. Further, it is also possibleto control execution of an applied program via user's pen inputoperation and execute an interactive process as well.

[0273] In order to expand applicable range of the Data-Tile system ofthe present invention, it is quite essential that many kinds ofvariations (such as size, thickness, and unit number that cansimultaneously be disposed on a flat display unit) related to the formof tiles shall be examined. Further, it is an interesting issue toimplement expansion of the scope of the existing system construction.For example, it is also possible to utilize such tiles on an identicalflat display unit, where each tile incorporates a physical switchingmeans and a simplified electronic circuit in mixture with such a passivetile solely fitted with a wireless tag mentioned earlier. It is alsoconceived that such function for recording voice memorandum may beformed as a tile, which is supposed to be combined with theContainer-Tile or a transmission tile.

[0274] Further, it is also possible to consider that such portableappliances including a portable telephone incorporating RF-ID data and aPDA (Personal Digital Assistance) may be provided as special tilecomponents. By way of mounting these portable appliances on a flatdisplay unit, it is possible to exchange data with other tiles.

[0275] It is also allowable to internally combine the RF-ID data readingunit inside of a certain unit other than the flat display unit such as arack for storing tiles. In this case, it is also practicable to inform auser of the reception of an electronic mail via blinking of theMail-Tile stored in the rack, for example.

[0276] Annotation:

[0277] [1] Pierre Weller: “The Digital Desk Calculator”, Tangiblemanipulation of a desk top. In proceedings of USIT 91, ACM Symposium onUser Interface Software and Technology, pp. 27˜34, November 1991.

[0278] [2] H. Suzuki and H. Kato: “Algo-Block”; a tangible programminglanguage, a tool for collaborative learning. In proceedings of the 4thEuropean Logo Conference, pp.297˜303, August 1993.

[0279] [3] George W. Fitsmaurice, Hiroshi Ishii, and William Buxton,“Bricks”: laying the foundations for graspable user interface. In CHI's1995 Conference, pp 442˜449, 1995.

[0280] [4] Hiroshi Ishii and Brygg Ullmer, “Tangible Bits: Towardsseamless interfaces between people, bits and atoms. In CHI' 1997Proceedings, pp. 234˜241, 1997.

[0281] [5] J. J. Gibson, “The ecological approach to visual perception”:Houghton Mifflin Company, 1979.

[0282] [6] Eric A. Bier, Maureen C. Stone, Ken Pier, William Buxton, andTony DeRose, “Tool-glass and Magic Lens”; The see-through interface. InJames T. Kajiya, Editor, Computer Graphics (SIGGRAPH' 93 Proceedings),Vol. 27, pp. 73˜80, August 1993.

[0283] [7] Jun Rekimoto and Katashi Nagao, “The world through thecomputer”; Computer augmented interaction with real world environments.In proceedings of the ACM symposium on User Interface Software andTechnology (USIT' 95), pp. 29˜36, November 1995.

[0284] [8] Dieter Schmalsteig, Miguel Encarnacao, and Zsolt Szalavari,“Using transparent props for interaction with the virtual table”: Inproceedings of Interactive 3D graphics (13DG' 99), 1999.

[0285] [9] Y Tanaka and T. Imataki, “A hypermedia system allowingfunctional composition of active media objects through directmanipulations”: In proceedings of the IFIP 11th World Computer Congress,pp. 541˜546, 1998.

[0286] [10] Itiro Siio, “Infor-Binder”: a pointing device for a virtualdesk-top system. In the 6th International Conference on Human-ComputerInteraction (HCI International '95), pp. 261˜264, July 1995.

[0287] [11] John Underkoffier and Hiroshi Ishii: “Illuminating Light”:An optical design tool with a luminous tangible interface. In CHI'98proceedings, pp. 542˜549, 1998.

[0288] [12] Jun Rekimoto and Masanori Saitoh: “Augmented Surfaces”; Aspecially continuous work-space for hybrid computing environments. Inproceedings of ACM CHI'99, pp. 378˜385, May 1999.

[0289] [13] Hideaki Koike, Yoichi Sato, Yoshinori Kobayashi, HiroakiTobita, and Motoki Kobayashi: “Interactive text book and interactivevenn diagram”: Natural and intuitive interfaces on augmented desksystem. In CHI'2000 proceedings, pp.121˜128, 2000.

[0290] [14] J. Rekimoto, Pick-and-Drop: A Direct Manipulation Techniquefor Multiple Computer Environments. In USIT' 97, pp. 31˜39, October1997.

What is claimed is:
 1. A data input and output system comprising; avisual interface comprising a substantially flat operating surface foraccommodating disposition of a physical interface and display functionfor displaying data on said operating surface; an identifying means foridentifying said physical interface disposed on said operating surface;and a data processing means for executing a data processing operation incorrespondence with a result of identification by said identifying meansand for externally displaying a result of said execution on said visualinterface.
 2. The data input and output system according to claim 1,wherein said physical interface comprises: a substantially flattransparent structural body; a transparent area which allows displaydata on the back-surface side of said transparent structural body topermeate itself to surface side thereof; a property data display areawhich is disposed to part of back surface or front surface in order todisplay property data of said physical interface; and an identificationdata storing means buried in said transparent structural body forstoring proper identification data.
 3. The data input and output systemaccording to claim 1, wherein said identifying means identifies saidproper data of said physical interface via an electromagnetictransmission and reception method.
 4. The data input and output systemaccording to claim 1, further comprising: a digitizer for reading a peninput via said operating surface of said visual interface and also viasaid physical interface disposed on said operating surface.
 5. The datainput and output system according to claim 1, further comprising: adigitizer for reading a pen input via said operating surface of saidvisual interface and also via said physical interface disposed on saidoperating surface; wherein said data processing means executes a dataprocessing operation corresponding to combination of identification dataowned by said physical interface disposed on said operating surface andsaid pen input operation added to said physical interface.
 6. The datainput and output system according to claim 1, wherein a plurality ofsaid physical interfaces may be disposed on said operating surface ofsaid visual interface; and said data processing means executes such adata processing operation corresponding to combination of identificationdata own by two or more than two of said physical interfaces disposed onsaid operating surface.
 7. The data input and output system according toclaim 1, further comprising: a digitizer for reading a pen input viasaid operating surface of said visual interface and also via saidphysical interface disposed on said operating surface; wherein aplurality of said physical interfaces may be disposed on said operatingsurface of said visual interface; and said data processing meansexecutes such a data processing operation corresponding to combinationof identification data owned by two or more than two of said physicalinterfaces disposed on said operating surface and said pen input addedto said physical interfaces.
 8. The data input and output systemaccording to claim 1, wherein, in response to result of detecting apredetermined identification data from said physical interface disposedon said operating surface of said visual interface, said data processingmeans executes such a process assigned to said identification data, anddisplays the processed result at a position at which said physicalinterface is disposed.
 9. The data input and output system according toclaim 1, wherein, in response to result of detecting a predeterminedidentification data from said physical interface disposed on saidoperating surface of said visual interface, said data processing meansexecutes an application program assigned to said identification data,and then, displays result of executing said application program at aposition at which said physical interface is disposed.
 10. The datainput and output system according to claim 1, further comprising: acommunication means for accessing external data resources; wherein, inresponse to result of detecting a predetermined identification data fromsaid physical interface disposed on said operating surface of saidvisual interface, said data processing means accesses said external dataresources assigned to said identification data, and then, displaysacquired data at a position at which said physical interface isdisposed.
 11. The data input and output system according to claim 1,wherein, in response to result of detecting a predeterminedidentification data from said physical interface disposed on saidoperating surface of said visual interface, said data processing meansexecutes linkage with an real world physical object assigned to saididentification data, and then, outputs data related to said physicalobject at a position at which said physical interface is disposed. 12.The data input and output system according to claim 1, wherein, inresponse to result of detecting a predetermined identification data fromsaid physical interface disposed on said operating surface of saidvisual interface, and then, displays said assigned data at a position atwhich said physical interface is disposed.
 13. The data input and outputsystem according to claim 1, wherein, in response result of detecting apredetermined identification data from said physical interface disposedon said operating surface of said visual interface, said data processingmeans assigns data held by another physical interface adjacent to saidphysical interface to a remotely disposed physical interface related tosaid another physical interface, and then, displays said assigned datato a position at which said remotely disposed said physical interface ispresent.
 14. The data input and output system according to claim 1,further comprising: a digitizer for reading a pen input via saidoperating surface of said visual interface and also via said physicalinterface disposed on said operating surface; wherein in response to thepen input added across two or more than two of said physical interfacesdisposed to positions adjacent to said operating surface, said dataprocessing means assigns data stored in one of said physical interfaceto the other physical interface.
 15. The data input and output systemaccording to claim 1, further comprising: a digitizer for reading a peninput via said operating surface of said visual interface and also viasaid physical interface disposed on said operating surface; wherein inresponse to said pen input added across two or more than two of saidphysical interfaces disposed to positions adjacent to said operatingsurface, said data processing means assigns data stored in one of saidphysical interfaces, and then, displays said assigned data at a positionat which the other physical interface is disposed.
 16. A method ofinputting and outputting data which provides an interactive techniquevia a physical interface on a substantially flat operating surface foraccommodating disposition of said physical interface and also on avisual interface incorporating display function for displaying data onsaid operating surface; said data input and output method comprising thesteps of: a step of identifying said physical interface disposed on saidoperating surface; and a data processing step for initially executing adata processing operation in correspondence with identified resultgenerated via said identifying step followed by a step of displayingprocessed result on said visual interface.
 17. The data input and outputmethod according to claim 16, wherein said physical interface comprises:a transparent area comprising of a substantially transparent structuralbody and enables display data on the back-surface side of saidtransparent structural body to permeate itself on the front-surface sidethereof; a property data display area disposed at part of said backsurface or front surface in order to display property data related tosaid physical interface; and an identification data storing means whichis buried in said transparent structural body in order to hold saididentification data proper to said physical interface.
 18. The datainput and output method according to claim 16, wherein said identifyingstep identifies data proper to said physical interface by applyingelectromagnetic transmission and reception method.
 19. The data inputand output method according to claim 16, further comprising: adigitizing step for reading a pen input via said operating surface ofsaid visual interface and also via said physical interface disposed onsaid operating surface.
 20. The data input and output method accordingto claim 16, further comprising: a digitizing step for reading a peninput via said operating surface of said visual interface and also viasaid physical interface disposed on said operating surface; wherein saiddata processing step executes a data processing operation correspondingto combination of identification data owned by said physical interfacedisposed on said operating surface and said pen input added to saidphysical interface.
 21. The data input and output method according toclaim 16, wherein a plurality of physical interfaces can be disposed onsaid operating surface of said visual interface; said data processingstep executes a data processing operation in correspondence withcombination of identification data owned by two or more than two ofphysical interfaces disposed on said operating surface.
 22. The datainput and output method according to claim 16, further comprising: adigitizing step for reading a pen input via operating surface of saidvisual interface and also via said physical interface disposed on saidoperating surface; wherein a plurality of said physical interfaces canbe disposed on said operating surface of said visual interface; and saiddata processing step executes a data processing operation incorrespondence with combination of identification data owned by two ormore than two of said physical interfaces disposed on said operatingsurface and said pen input added to said physical interfaces.
 23. Thedata input and output method according to claim 16, wherein, in responseto result of detecting a predetermined identification data from saidphysical interface disposed on said operating surface of said visualinterface, said data processing step executes a process assigned to saididentification data, and then, displays processed result at a positionat which said physical interface is disposed.
 24. The data input andoutput method according to claim 16, wherein, in response to result ofdetecting a predetermined identification data from said physicalinterface disposed on said operating surface of said visual interface,said data processing step executes an application program assigned tosaid identification data, and then, displays result of executing saidapplication program at a position at which said physical interface isdisposed.
 25. The data input and output method according to claim 16,further comprising: a communicating step for accessing external dataresources; wherein, in response to result of detecting a predeterminedidentification data from said physical interface disposed on saidoperating surface of said visual interface, said data processing stepaccesses data resources assigned to said identification data, and then,displays acquired data at a position at which said physical interface isdisposed.
 26. The data input and output method according to claim 16,wherein, in response to result of detecting a predeterminedidentification data from said physical interface disposed on saidsurface of said visual interface, said data processing step executesconnection to an real world physical object assigned to saididentification data, and then, displays data related to said physicalobject at a position at which said physical interface is disposed. 27.The data input and output method according to claim 16, wherein, inresponse to result of detecting a predetermined identification data fromsaid physical interface disposed on said operating surface of saidvisual interface, said data processing method assigns such data held byone of said physical interfaces adjacent to said physical interface tosaid physical interface, and then, displays said assigned data at aposition at which said physical interface is disposed.
 28. The datainput and output method according to claim 16, wherein, in response toresult of detecting a predetermined identification data from saidphysical interface disposed on said operating surface of said visualinterface, said data processing step assigns such data held by one ofsaid physical interfaces adjacent to said physical interface to aremotely disposed said physical interface related to said physicalinterface, and then, displays said assigned data at a position at whichsaid physical interface is disposed.
 29. The data input and outputmethod according to claim 16, further comprising: a digitizing step forreading a pen input via said operating surface of said visual interfaceand also via said physical interface disposed on said operating surface;wherein in response to addition of pen operation across two or more thantwo of said physical interfaces adjacent to said operating surface, saiddata processing step assigns data stored in one of said physicalinterfaces to another physical interface.
 30. The data input and outputmethod according to claim 16, further comprising: a digitizing step forreading a pen input via said operating surface of said visual interfaceand also via said physical interface disposed on said operating surface;wherein in response to addition of said pen input across two or morethan two of said physical interfaces adjacent to said operating surface,said data processing method assigns data stored in one of said physicalinterfaces to another physical interface, and then, displays saidassigned data at a position at which said another physical interface isdisposed.
 31. A recording medium which physically stores such computersoftware via a computer readable format; wherein said computer softwarecontains such description for arranging execution of a data input andoutput process for providing such an interactive technique via operationof a physical interfaces disposed on a substantially flat operatingsurface for accommodating provision of said physical interfaces and onsuch a visual interface incorporating such display function fordisplaying data on said operating surface in order that said data inputand output process can be executed on a computer; wherein saidcomputer-readable software comprises the following: an identifying stepfor identifying individual physical interfaces disposed on saidoperating surface; and a data processing step for initially executing adata processing operation in correspondence with identified resultgenerated via execution of said identifying step followed by externaldisplay of processed result on said visual interface.